GCSE Physics equations practice
Select a relationship from the equation sheet, rearrange it and calculate with the right units.
Hooke’s law and spring calculations
Use force and extension, find spring constants and elastic energy, and interpret force–extension data.
Practise
Where Hooke’s law appliesA force–extension graph is initially a straight line through the origin, then curves. What does the point where it first curves identify?
Hint
Hooke’s law describes proportional force and extension. Returning to the original length is a separate test.
Worked solution
- Rule: The limit of proportionality.
- At the limit of proportionality, force and extension stop being directly proportional.
- A spring can behave nonlinearly yet still return to its original length; this point need not be its elastic limit.
Question type: Mixed practice
Report a problem
Foundation and Higher: this set covers content common to both tiers. Some calculations need several steps.
Force and extension
Extension is the change from unloaded length, measured in metres for F = kx. The force–extension gradient is k when force is vertical and extension horizontal. E = ½kx² applies over the Hooke’s-law range. The limit of proportionality and elastic limit are different: a curved relationship does not by itself prove permanent deformation.
Work through the practical method and sample results
GCSE scope
AQA 8463: 4.5.3; required practical 6 (selected); OCR Gateway J249: P2.3b–e; PM2.3i–iii; PAG P2 (selected). Tasks cover the selected skills listed above.